Pascal will remain in The Last of Us 2 through flashbacks and memories

Although Joel’s death means that Pedro Pascal’s main role in the series ends in the current timeline, he will continue to appear in «The Last of Us» through flashbacks and memories, as is the case in the video game. The showrunners have confirmed that Pascal will remain part of the series in the second season, albeit in a more limited, nonlinear role.

«If we’ve done everything right, you will feel Joel’s presence in many ways», - said showrunner Craig Mazin in an interview with Entertainment Weekly.

Joel’s death in «The Last of Us Part II» is a result of his actions at the end of the first game, when he killed Abby’s father to save Ellie. Abby seeks revenge, and her actions trigger the entire plotline of the sequel. Joel’s death becomes a catalyst for Ellie’s journey.

In the series, after witnessing his brutal murder, Ellie tearfully holds Joel’s body and vows to take revenge